Makerere VC Nawangwe roots for blockchain technology

KAMPALA - Makerere University vice-chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe has urged Ugandans to embrace blockchain technology as a catalyst for rapid economic transformation.

Speaking on December 6, 2026, at the university’s Financial Innovation Day, Nawangwe highlighted the importance of integrating digital payment systems and blockchain to foster economic transformation in Uganda and the wider African continent.

He said Africa’s young population gives the continent a strategic advantage in the global digital revolution.

“We have an advantage in Africa. Our population is predominantly young, and this demographic can leverage technology and innovation to transform our continent,” he said. “Blockchain offers a path to fast-track development, and Makerere is committed to ensuring that Uganda is not left behind.”

Blockchain, a decentralised and transparent digital system, is gaining traction globally across industries like finance, healthcare, and governance.

Nawangwe said the technology can help address Africa’s most persistent challenges, particularly corruption, access to financial services, and inefficiencies in government operations.

While acknowledging the role of politics in national development, he insisted that long-term progress depends on education, research and innovation. Drawing on the example of the “Asian Tigers,” he noted that their economic miracles were built on strategic investments in education and technology.

“We cannot rely solely on politics,” Nawangwe said. “Countries we admire didn’t get there by politicking. They invested in education and innovation. These are the pillars that drive real change.”

He praised Makerere University students for their increasing engagement in research and invention.

“Our students are innovating, researching and reading more than ever before. We are beginning to see a generation of young people that will be key in reshaping Uganda’s economy.”

He urged Ugandans to support education and the innovation ecosystem, calling education “the most effective way to create a brighter future for Uganda and Africa.”

Addressing education challenges

Nawangwe also highlighted the ongoing problem of school dropout rates, particularly in rural communities. He cited hunger and parental neglect as major contributors, noting that some learners cannot stay in school because of a lack of meals, while others are withdrawn by parents to work in fields.

“We are looking into the reasons why children drop out of school despite education being free,” he said. “Some studies suggest hunger is a major factor. Others are taken out of school by parents for labour.”

He called for coordinated efforts among government, schools, and families. “We must all work together to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn and grow. Education is the foundation for a brighter future.”

Empowering African youth

Also addressing the gathering was SoonPay, US-based resource app built around blockchain technology and financial services, chief executive officer Frantz Morency. Makerere held the innovation day in partnership with SoonPay.

Morency said SoonPay seeks to empower African youth, especially Ugandans, with blockchain skills that can open new pathways to innovation and financial independence.

“SoonPay is not just a financial app; it’s a resource app that combines blockchain and financial services,” he said. 

“We want to educate young people in Africa, particularly in Uganda, about blockchain technology, which can open up new avenues for innovation and financial inclusion.”
SoonPay chose Uganda as a launchpad because of its demographic profile, 70 per cent of its population is under 30. 

“The youth are the future,” Morency said, adding that Africa’s young people are learning faster than ever before. 

“By targeting Uganda, SoonPay aims to empower youth to not only consume technology but to innovate with it, ensuring they are prepared for the future of the global economy.”

Opportunity for Africa

He urged Africa to abandon its historic role as a passive consumer of other nations’ technologies.

“We’re no longer willing to be left behind. Blockchain is an opportunity for Africa to be at the forefront of technological change, just as other countries have been with previous technological revolutions.”

Morency emphasised that blockchain’s value goes far beyond secure data management. 

“Blockchain is about data. When you pay a water bill or use the court system, you’re processing data. Blockchain ensures that data is never lost. It makes systems more transparent, and it forces businesses to be honest.”

He further explained SoonPay’s plan to introduce blockchain nodes that allow households to verify global transactions and earn income. “Imagine if every household could run a blockchain node and earn money every second of the day.

This is how we can create opportunities. We’re not just teaching them about technology; we’re showing them how to build wealth with it.”

Sharing his journey from humble beginnings in Haiti to becoming a successful entrepreneur, Morency encouraged African youth to seize emerging opportunities. His message echoed Prof. Nawangwe’s call for an innovation-driven future.

“Let us not wait for the future to come to us. We must create the future. And that future is rooted in education, technology, and innovation,” Prof. Nawangwe advised.